40 years of the artistic conservatory of French Polynesia
The artistic conservatory of French Polynesia (CAPF), TE FARE UPA RAU, was created in 1979, 40 years ago, by the encounter of two men passionate of culture: MM. Maco TEVANE, then government advisor and Claude MALRIC, its first director.
Located at the entrance to the Tipaerui Valley, in Papeete (Tahiti Island), this public establishment has the mission to preserve, teach and enhance cultures. It now houses more than 2000 students and about 40 teachers in four main sections: traditional arts - 'ori tahiti, 'Orero, himene, percussion, ukulele, guitar, general culture; classical arts, with the teaching of the great families of instruments; visual arts and dramatic art.
Over the years, a "Jazz" department and a "Modern Music" department have been added, as well as a 'Digital Arts" section. The stamp issue is a tribute to this unique blend of cultures, which is admired by all.
The CAPF formations - five orchestras including a symphony orchestra and a Big Band, and several ensembles - give about 30 concerts and galas per year. The establishment also hosts international courses in the practice of traditional arts, and produces, each year during the month of July with the support of the Polynesian Ministry of Culture, a great live show on the marae Arahurahu, in Paea.